25 November 2003 – The Philippine Embassy in Brunei launched a series of Overseas Workers Welfare Association (OWWA) programs that would equip OFWs in Brunei with added knowledge, skills and attitudes that would be beneficial to them as they prepare to eventually return and resettle in the Philippines.

The programs, in cooperation with the various Filipino religious and non-religious organizations in Brunei are conducted every Sunday with the intention of encouraging OFWs to spend their weekend and days-off engaged in productivity and self-development activities at the Embassy’s Resource Center.

The livelihood series include cooking lessons in popular Filipino foodstuffs like empanada, pan de sal and kakanin; silkscreen printing, and; basic computer use.

An English Language proficiency course is also being offered.

The Embassy will hold a graduation ceremony at the Chancery on 7 December 2003 during which Certificates of Attendance will be awarded to successful participants.

The programs will resume in January 2004 with sessions in other income-generating activities such as dress-making, basic welding, basic electrical servicing, refrigeration and air-conditioning jobs, sewing, make-up application and personality development.

To date, more than 700 OFWs have benefited from the Embassy’s livelihood program and training courses.

“This is a most laudable effort worthy of emulation by our Posts in places where a lot our kababayans are based,” Foreign Affairs Secretary Blas Ople said. “This only goes to show that even when assigned abroad, our DFA personnel can engage in activities that help our countrymen develop themselves and is therefore a significant contribution to nation-building.” - END